The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) recently kicked off its 2024/25 season with a mesmerizing production of Giuseppe Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera, performed by the acclaimed China National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) from Beijing. The opera featured world-class artists such as Elena Stikhina, Piotr Beczała, Liao Changyong, Agnieszka Rehlis, and Enkeleda Kamani, under the direction of Hugo de Ana. Maestro Giampaolo Bisanti led the Orchestra della Fondazione del Teatro Lirico di Cagliari, bringing Verdi’s masterpiece to life with exceptional artistry and captivating the audience. The opening nights on the 3rd and 5th of October attracted a large and distinguished audience, signifying an important occasion in Oman’s cultural calendar.
The lavish event included a red carpet welcome and a stunning light display, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. In line with the opera’s theme, bespoke masks were distributed to the attendees, enhancing the immersive experience of Un Ballo in Maschera. The NCPA also presented A Musical Night from China at the Royal Opera House of Musical Arts, conducted by Lü Jia, featuring the NCPA Chorus and soloists, showcasing musical talent and promoting cultural ties between Oman and China. Umberto Fanni, Director General and Artistic Director of ROHM, expressed pride in presenting Verdi’s opera in Muscat for the first time, highlighting the role of cultural institutions in fostering mutual understanding through art.
Lü Jia, Artistic Director of Music and Music Director of the NCPA Orchestra, emphasized the power of music in uniting audiences and facilitating cultural exchange between nations during the performance in Muscat. The collaboration between ROHM and NCPA exemplifies the significance of cultural connections in bridging diverse communities. The Vice President of the China National Centre for the Performing Arts, Guan Jianbo, underscored the international tour as a testament to the influence of Chinese art and the enduring partnership between China and Oman. As the season progresses, anticipation builds for upcoming performances, including the Omani Women’s Day celebration featuring Majida El Roumi, the Al Nour Wal Amal Ladies’ Orchestra, the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra Ladies’ Ensemble, Moroccan pianist Nour Ayadi, and renowned sitar virtuoso Nishat Khan.
Majida El Roumi’s concerts on October 18th and 19th will showcase her iconic songs known for their poetic beauty and themes of love, humanity, and patriotism. Nishat Khan’s performance of his sitar symphony Gate of the Moon with the European Philharmonia Orchestra on October 30th and 31st promises to be a unique and captivating experience for audiences. Educational and outreach events, such as a performance by soprano Joyce El Khoury, pianist Serouj Kradjian, and a Lebanese ensemble blending French and Arabic songs, offer a diverse range of cultural experiences. The ROHM encourages audiences to secure tickets for upcoming events through its website, mobile app, or box office, ensuring a memorable and enriching cultural experience for all attendees.
The diverse and prestigious lineup of performances at the Royal Opera House Muscat’s 2024/25 season highlights the institution’s commitment to showcasing world-class talent and promoting cultural exchange. The successful collaboration with the China National Centre for the Performing Arts in presenting Giuseppe Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera exemplifies the power of music and art in bridging nations and fostering understanding. The exceptional artistry displayed by the artists, conductors, and musicians during the season’s opening nights reflects the dedication to delivering captivating and immersive experiences for the audience. As excitement continues to build for the upcoming performances, including the Omani Women’s Day celebration and concerts by Majida El Roumi and Nishat Khan, the ROHM remains at the forefront of cultural enrichment in Oman and beyond.
The ROHM’s dedication to offering a diverse program of events, including educational and outreach initiatives, underscores its mission to provide accessible and enriching cultural experiences for all. From classical opera to traditional Arabic music, audiences can expect a range of performances that celebrate artistic excellence and cultural diversity. The organization’s ongoing commitment to promoting international collaboration and showcasing talents from around the world ensures that patrons are treated to unforgettable experiences that transcend borders and languages. As the season progresses, audiences are encouraged to engage with the ROHM’s upcoming events and immerse themselves in the richness of musical and artistic expression on offer.
